GOF cracks down on illegal logging, liquor smuggling

The General Operations Force said it will continue its efforts to combat smuggling and illegal logging to prevent the exploitation of Malaysia’s forests. (Bernama pic)

KOTA BHARU: 

Three men were arrested for suspected involvement in illegally logging timber worth nearly RM1 million during a raid under Op Bersepadu Khazanah at the Sungai Sam archway in Paloh, Gua Musang, last Sunday.

Southeast Brigade General Operations Force (GOF) commander Nik Ros Azhan Ab Rahman said the suspects, aged between 28 and 52, were gathering processed forest products at the time.

The 4pm operation led to the discovery of more than 500 logs and pieces of timber for which the men could not produce a valid permit or licence from the forestry department.

“They are believed to be couriers, transporting illegal forest products for sale in the local market.

“The case is being investigated under Section 3(2) of the Wood-Based Industries Enactment 1985. Wood-processing machinery was also seized during the operation,” Nik Ros Azhan said in a statement today.

The GOF also seized equipment and machinery for illegal wood processing during an inspection of a sawmill in Kampung Lela Jasa, Kuala Krai, at around 10pm last Sunday.

Nik Ros Azhan said the sawmill was operating without a licence from the forestry department.

“A 52-year-old man believed to be the caretaker of the sawmill was also arrested. The seized items were estimated to be worth RM500,000,” he said.

The case is also being investigated under Section 3(2) of the Wood-Based Industries Enactment 1985.

In Kuala Jambu, Tumpat, meanwhile, the GOF foiled an attempt to smuggle liquor at the illegal Nibong jetty at 2.30pm yesterday after patrol officers discovered several liquor boxes on the riverbank.

The boxes contained 119 bottles of Hong Thong and Chang liquor, valued at RM2,380, believed to have been smuggled from Thailand.

“The case is being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967,” Nik Ros Azhan said.

He said the GOF would continue its efforts to combat smuggling and illegal logging to prevent the exploitation of Malaysia’s forests. - FMT